Diving into Puerto Vallarta
From late October into early November, Puerto Vallarta comes alive in a riot of color and celebration. The salty sea breeze drifts through the streets, carrying music, laughter, and the vibrant energy of festivities on every corner.
We joined Kaleigh and Sean, Brittney and Johnny, and Mary and Ruben at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, where mornings unfolded slowly — coffee in hand, ocean breeze on our faces, and no real plans until someone mentioned tacos.
Between Johnny and Brittney’s wedding, Kaleigh and Sean’s anniversary, Huffman’s promotion to captain, and the dazzling spirit of Día de los Muertos, it felt like the whole city was dancing and celebrating right alongside us.
Getting to Puerto Vallarta
Getting to Puerto Vallarta is effortless — we flew Volaris through The Cross Border Xpress (CBX), which links Tijuana International Airport with a terminal in San Diego, making the trip seamless from the very start. Once we landed, getting around was a breeze too. You can easily catch an Uber, and it’s pretty inexpensive.
Día de los Muertos
Being in Puerto Vallarta for their legendary Día de los Muertos Festival was a profoundly moving experience. The town came alive with color, music, and heart. Every corner told a story — altars adorned with marigolds and candles honoring loved ones, streets alive with parades, music, and dancing that blurred the line between celebration and remembrance. It was this beautiful blend of life and legacy, where the living and the departed felt intertwined.
It also happened to be my dad’s birthday, and I felt his presence everywhere. Walking along the Malecón boardwalk, with altars glowing and flickering against the sea breeze, I was reminded in the gentlest way that he’s never truly far away.
Must Try
We devoured tacos nearly every day, but Pepe’s Taco easily stole the show. Even at 9 p.m., there was a line stretching around the corner — and for good reason. The air was fragrant with pork sizzling on the spit, edges perfectly caramelized over an open flame. The flavors balanced just right — savory, slightly sweet, and impossibly juicy. Every bite was messy, flavorful, and exactly the kind of comfort food that makes you forget the rest of the world for a few minutes.
Another evening, we made the drive out to La Peska, a coastal gem tucked in Cruz de Huanacaxtle, thanks to Mary and Ruben who shared this spot with us. The open-air palapa overlooked the marina, and as the sun set, the golden light made the experience even better. We feasted on tender octopus, delicate tuna carpaccio, creamy slices of fresh avocado, and perfectly fried banana for dessert — each bite fresh and flavorful. We washed it all down with dirty martinis.
Pure Thrill Meets Nature
Meanwhile, Kaleigh, Sean, Brittney and Johnny went all out on an adrenaline-packed RTV adventure through the Sierra Madre Occidental. They crossed the world’s longest vehicular suspension bridge — 470 meters long and 150 meters high — and tore along dusty mountain trails, surrounded by lush jungle and jaw-dropping valleys, until the adventure ended with a refreshing splash in the crystal-clear waters of El Salto waterfall. I love that they got to experience that.
Most of our days were spent by the hotel pool at the Marriott, soaking up the sun, devouring calamari and ceviche, and sipping cocktails, letting those ranch waters be everything we needed.
Kaleigh and Sean are our core travel crew — the kind of friends who make every trip one for the books. We’ve been exploring the world together almost every year since our first adventure in Croatia back in 2017. It’s rare to find people who not only love to travel but who you actually travel well with… same pace, same energy, and always down for whatever the day brings.
Highly Recommend
One of the trip’s highlights was spending the day on an all-inclusive Chica Locca Tours yacht with a group of strangers who somehow felt like old friends by the end of the day. Our first stop was Quimixto and Playa Chica Locca, a gorgeous protected bay perfect for testing the jumping platform, snorkeling, or paddleboarding. We snacked on fresh guac and chips from the open bar while cruising along a tropical coastline you can only reach by boat.
Next, we made our way to Yelapa, a peaceful fishing village just 45 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta and 25 minutes from Boca de Tomatlan, tucked into the Sierra Madre foothills. The name “Yelapa” means where two rivers meet the sea, and it lives up to it — a stunning bay perfect for anchoring for the day. We wandered narrow streets lined with donkeys and artisan shops before hiking to a waterfall, where the views felt like the ultimate reward for all that exploring.
Of course, I stopped to greet all the dogs of the town. If I could’ve, I would’ve brought every single one home. Especially this cutie! They were everywhere — lounging in the sun, wandering the narrow streets, and even tagging along as we explored. Honestly, for me, the pups were part of what made wandering Yelapa feel so magical.
The day was effortless. By the time we headed back, everyone was sun-kissed and already talking about the next adventure.
Where we stayed
Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa — Set right on the water with views of Banderas Bay, this resort balanced relaxation and convenience. Morning coffee by the ocean, sunsets from the infinity pool, and just enough space to unwind between outings.
Trip highlights
Spending the day aboard an all-inclusive Chica Locca yacht, complete with swimming, snorkeling, and nonstop drinks.
Exploring Yelapa, a hidden seaside town with colorful streets and waterfall hikes.
Sunset dinner at La Peska, where the seafood was worth the drive.
Kaleigh, Sean, Brittney, and Johnny tearing through the Sierra Madre on an adrenaline-filled RTV adventure with Canopy River Park, crossing the world’s longest vehicular suspension bridge and finishing with a dip in El Salto waterfall.
Late-night tacos at Pepe’s Taco — always the right choice.
Experiencing Día de los Muertos in full color and sound throughout the city.